Senior Send-off: getting to know Columbus quarterback Alejandro Ros

Columbus, a household name in the juggernaut of South Florida football, took the state by storm for the second year in a row. Though the Explorers’ 2015 season came up short of a state title, their spectacular season will not be forgotten, thanks, in part, to their captain, Alejandro Ros. The dual-threat quarterback had a stellar season, throwing for over 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns, as well as sneaking in 149 yards on the ground and two rushing touchdowns while leading the number one offense in Dade County to a 9-1 record. All of which contributed to his roster spot in the North vs. South All-Star Game. Ros threw for two touchdowns in the game, including a touchdown strike to fellow Columbus teammate, Jerron Rollins. It would have been difficult to achieve all the feats he accomplished if it were not for his coaches and teammates as they developed him from freshman to senior year- on the field as teammates, and off the field as brothers. Ros, although just a one year starter, holds many Columbus memories dear to his heart. “My favorite Columbus moment is probably the second Gables game. After losing the first one and coming back and winning that game 35-0, after that first touchdown on that first play, it was exciting. That feeling is unforgettable,” said Ros.

Everyone is aware of what Ros can do on the field, but his off-the-field decisions and life is what separates him from the rest. Ros’ academic excellence and respect for his teammates and teachers is what his superiors are intrigued by the most. “It’s been a joy coaching Alejandro. It’s been fun for me as a coach to watch him grow, to watch him get stronger, to watch him develop into the quarterback he became,” said Columbus head coach Chris Merritt. “I’m very happy to see his development, I’m very excited to see what the future holds for him, and if I could have a quarterback any time at Columbus High School, I’d be lucky if I could get one like Alex.”

“This whole week in practice he’s been well-mannered, he’s a respectable kid. He’s a kid, if I give him a scholarship, and he goes to a party, I can turn my back and never guess what he’s going to do wrong. He’s a perfect kid,” said South Florida recruiting analyst Jerry Williamson. Williamson, an expert in all things South Florida football, ranks Ros third in South Florida quarterbacks with only Kato Nelson (Flanagan) and Stephen “Buckshot” Calvert (Carol City) ahead of him.

It has been a waiting game for Ros as far as recruiting goes, but the Columbus quarterback is confident in his abilities and is hoping for a few more offers before the end of the year. It goes without saying that he deserves it.